Abstract: A method for concentrating and eliminating radionuclides from water from in nuclear pools based on the capacity of microorganisms when they are growing to retain radionuclides by forming biofilms on the colonized surfaces. The method of the invention utilizes the colonization of microorganisms in the water for the bioremediation. Preferably the bioremediation is performed before the water is passed through demineralizing filters to prolong the life of such filters. As a result, there is less radioactive waste to be managed, thereby increasing the profitability of the method.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of concentrating and eliminating in radionuclides water from nuclear pools which is based on the capacity of micro-organisms when they are growing to retain radionuclides by forming biofilms on the colonised surfaces. Until now, the inventive method, known as bioremediation, has not been used in the containment area of nuclear power stations. At present, radioactive water in nuclear pools is clarified with a system of demineraliser filters which, when at the end of their working life, generate a considerable amount of radiactive material which has to be managed. The method involving bioremediation, which is performed before the aforementioned filters, prolongs the life of said filters. As a result, there is less radioactive waste to be managed, thereby increasing the profitability of the method.